The #1 Thing You Do in an Evacuation… And It’s NOT What You Think

When the evacuation alarm sounds — whether it’s wildfire smoke on the horizon, flash flooding warning, or a sudden power grid meltdown — your brain probably jumps to grabbing that bug out bag. I mean.....(clear throat, yeah yeah yeah cause you do have that ready!)

You’re thinking: “Food? Check. Water? Check. Dog? Double check!” You’re ready to roll like a survival boss. But hold up — before you dash out that door, there’s one crucial step most people totally miss.

Spoiler alert: It’s making a reservation.

Yep, you read that right. While everyone else is busy stuffing their backpacks, you need to hit pause and lock down your destination. Because here’s the ugly truth: when disaster strikes, everybody else is trying to make the exact same move you are.

Imagine this: You’ve got your well-packed Go Bag, the dog’s leash is clipped, kids are buckled up, and you’re racing down the highway to “safety.” But what happens when every hotel, motel, and Airbnb within 100 miles is booked solid? Or worse — the only places left are so expensive you’re better off popping a tent on the highway. 

That’s why booking your spot early isn’t just smart — it’s survival 101.

Why Booking Early Saves You Stress (and Time)

• Avoid the last-minute panic: Booking ahead means no “Sorry, we’re full” texts when you’re already on the road.
• Control your safety: Pick a spot that’s safe, accessible, and suits your family’s needs — not just the first place with a vacancy sign.
• Keep your options open: The earlier you book, the more choices you have. Plus, you can prepare your route, plan supplies, and know exactly where you’re headed.
• Stay calm and focused: When you know where you’re sleeping, your energy goes into prepping and keeping the family safe, not Googling “emergency shelter near me.”

How to Choose Your Evacuation Spot

• Pick a location far enough from the danger zone — but close enough that it’s easy to get there.
• Think about your family’s needs: pet-friendly? Kid-friendly? Medical needs? Make sure your reservation covers it.
• Have a backup plan — sometimes plan A doesn’t work out, so know your Plan B or C.

Bonus: Keep That Reservation Info Handy

Write down your confirmation number, address, phone number — even screenshots on your phone — and share it with everyone in your household. If you get separated, your tribe knows exactly where to regroup.

Bottom line: Prepping isn’t just about what you pack — it’s about what you plan. So, before you slam that door behind you, make that reservation. Trust us, your future self will thank you.

And hey, if you want a solid checklist of what to pack along the way (yes, including fresh socks and snacks that won’t betray you), grab our FREE 72-Hour Checklist. 

Stay ready, stay smart, and remember: prepping is about peace of mind — not panic.